Nina Johnson
Golden, buttery, and crisp on the outside with a soft custardy center, Brioche French Toast is what brunch dreams are made of. Whether you’re hosting a holiday breakfast or just craving something indulgent on a lazy weekend morning, this recipe delivers both elegance and comfort.
Made with rich slices of brioche bread soaked in a creamy vanilla and cinnamon-spiced egg custard, it’s the kind of meal that makes you want to linger over coffee just a bit longer. Top it with whipped cream, fresh berries, and a drizzle of maple syrup and you’ve got the ultimate breakfast treat.
What Kind of Bread Works Best for French Toast?
Brioche is the star here. Its buttery richness and pillowy texture soak up the custard without falling apart, creating that dreamy balance between crisp edges and a tender interior. Thick slices work best—at least 3/4-inch thick—to really hold up to the soak and pan-fry.
Ingredients for the Brioche French Toast
Brioche Bread: Soft, buttery, and thick-cut slices are ideal for absorbing the custard while keeping their shape.
Eggs: The foundation of the custard, providing richness and structure.
Whole Milk & Heavy Cream: This combination creates a luxuriously creamy base for the custard.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of sweet warmth to the mixture.
Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Essential for that classic warm-spiced French toast flavor.
Salt: Just a pinch helps balance the sweetness.
Butter: For pan-frying the toast to golden perfection.
Maple Syrup & Berries (Optional): For topping and presentation—they add freshness, color, and sweetness.
How To Make the Brioche French Toast
Step 1: Make the Custard Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Soak the Brioche Slices
Place the brioche slices into the custard, allowing them to soak for about 20 seconds per side. You want them saturated but not falling apart.
Step 3: Preheat and Butter the Pan
Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a pat of butter and let it melt, swirling to coat the surface.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Brown
Place the soaked slices in the pan and cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crisp. Work in batches if needed, adding more butter as you go.
Step 5: Serve with Style
Transfer the cooked French toast to plates. Top with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup.
How to Serve and Store Brioche French Toast
Serve Brioche French Toast fresh and hot from the skillet for the best texture and flavor. It’s perfect with a dollop of whipped cream, seasonal berries, and maple syrup or honey.
To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to restore that crisp exterior. You can also freeze cooked slices by wrapping them individually and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, though brioche is preferred for its richness. Challah or thick Texas toast also work well.
Can I make the custard ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the custard up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge.
How do I avoid soggy French toast?
Use day-old bread and don’t oversoak. Brioche that’s slightly stale absorbs better without falling apart.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk and cream with almond or oat milk, and use plant-based butter.
What toppings go best with it?
Fresh berries, powdered sugar, maple syrup, whipped cream, and even a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of nut butter.
Can I bake it instead of frying?
You can! Arrange soaked slices on a parchment-lined sheet and bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Want More Breakfast Ideas with a Twist?
If you love this Brioche French Toast, you’ll probably enjoy these other breakfast favorites:
- Overnight Creme Brulee French Toast for a make-ahead morning splurge.
- Easy Bisquick Cinnamon Rolls when you want something sweet but speedy.
- Healthy Banana Oatmeal Muffins for a wholesome breakfast option.
- Bacon Egg and Hash Brown Casserole if you prefer something savory and filling.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the cinnamon? Add a splash of orange zest or a dash of bourbon?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other create the best brunches ever.
Brioche French Toast
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3 (2 slices per person) 1x
- Category: Breakfast
Description
Golden on the outside, fluffy on the inside, this Brioche French Toast is the kind of breakfast that feels like a cozy weekend morning. Made with thick-cut brioche bread soaked in a creamy cinnamon-vanilla custard, then pan-fried in butter until crisp and golden, it’s a luxurious way to start the day.
Ingredients
6 slices brioche bread (3/4-inch thick)
3 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Dip each slice of brioche into the custard for about 20 seconds per side.
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a bit of butter.
- Cook soaked slices for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
